Pope Stephen IX

Who was Pope Stephen IX?

In Roman Catholicism, despite the contrary assertions of late writers, there is no doubt that Pope Stephen IX was a Roman and cardinal-priest of SS. Silvester and Martin.

He supported the declining Carlovingian dynasty, and by threat of excommunication forced the nobles to be faithful to the Frankish King Louis IV d'Outre-Mer. Throughout the whole of his pontificate he was subject to Alberic, Prince of the Romans, and so had little opportunity of distinguishing himself.